Zelensky hits back at Merz over calls for territorial concessions

In his nightly video address on April 27, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy responded to proposals by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz for territorial concessions to Russia.

He did not directly mention Merz’s statement, but clearly referred to it.

«It is important for all partners not to forget that Ukraine is defending not only itself in this war — especially Europe, ” he said.

Zelenskyy stresses that Vladimir Putin would not stop at occupying parts of Ukraine, arguing that any compromise involving Ukrainian territory would serve as a «green light» for further Russian aggression across Europe.

«Russia wants our territory so it can seize the territories of others. If it succeeds with one state, with one neighbor, it will be the same with the others. This is how Russia has moved: a piece of Moldova, parts of Georgia, the seizure of Crimea, the occupation of Donetsk, the subjugation of Belarus. Now, a full-scale war against Ukraine,» he reminded.

According to Zelenskyy, Russia can only be stopped by real force and genuine resolve from all partners.

«Resolve is what matters. This applies to America, the G7, and European nations. For there to be true peace in Europe and for Russia to stop, there must be dignified conditions for Ukraine and respect for Ukraine. This covers every critical security aspect: sovereignty, territorial integrity, security guarantees, EU accession, and the actual post-war reconstruction of our country. We are working for a dignified peace,» Zelenskyy concluded.